STARTER
The Bombay Club Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab DUBAI
Words: Hannah Currie Photography: © Rupert Peace
IN A BITE Owner: Dubai Holding Operator: Jumeirah Group Architecture: Shaun Killa Interior Design: AvroKo Menu Design: Studio Paper Consultant Chef: Manav Tuli Head Chef: Kumaran Balaji Restaurant Manager: Sujay Joshu Head Mixologist: Nikola Ristic Director of Wine: Samuel Lacroix Holloware: Siom www.jumeirah.com
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M
ichelin-starred chef Manav Tuli pens
created a soft and magnetic colour story; the
a love letter to his home country with
subtle, washy greens play well with the reds and
The Bombay Club, an Indian restaurant
oranges of the wallpaper,” continues Harris.
located within Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai.
“It’s a natural complement that pleasantly
A sensory voyage through high society during
resonates a sense of calmness.”
the British Raj era, the venue is an ode to the
The palette is inspired by India’s national bird
vibrant coastal city of Mumbai, offering an array
and the designer’s greatest muse – the peacock.
of traditional West Indian delicacies made for
“From colour and pattern to artistry, it was our
sharing. Think aromatic curries, flavourful
spirit animal,” he reveals. “Their tails convey
biryanis and crispy dosas.
elegance, and in Hinduism, symbolise beauty,
“Chef Tuli’s cuisine honours Bombay’s rich
power and unpredictability.” Depictions of the
heritage with a delicate and sophisticated
vibrant plumage appear on wallpaper, while
touch,” explains William Harris, co-founder
glazed tiles in feather-like patterns line the
and Principal at AvroKo, the design firm
back of an open kitchen. As night falls, operable
behind the space. “Our interiors are a physical
ceilings open and chandeliers descend. Elegant
manifestation of that approach.”
fixtures crafted from handblown glass, their
By day, texturally painted walls in soft powder green and opulent floral fabrics bring to
outstretched arms evoking folded feathers lifted in mid-flight.
life a setting reminiscent of an East meets West
“We aimed to create an atmosphere that is
grand palace. Oak parquet floors spiked with
reverent and elevated while celebrating the
emerald marble tiles continue the theme, while
richness of the cuisine,” Harris concludes. “The
rattan details trace plush velvet chairs and brass
Bombay Club is a true high-end Indian dining
inlays add a sense of luxury to wood tables. “We
experience fit for Dubai.”